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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights In

Enjoy this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, a cozy dish with caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps in caramelizing onions.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used alongside butter for sautéing.
  • 2 large Yellow Onions Essential for caramelization.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Enhances caramelization of the onions.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavoring.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for aromatic depth.
  • 1.5 cups Orzo Pasta Absorbs creamy flavors.
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds an earthiness.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth Provides depth akin to French onion soup.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Makes the dish rich and creamy.
  • 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully on top.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional but recommended for topping.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds depth; optional.

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet
  • separate skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 2 large sliced yellow onions, a teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions are a deep golden brown and caramelized. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves in the final minute.
  2. Season 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, heat a dash of oil over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces on each side for about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Pour 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth into the pan with the caramelized onions, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 1.5 cups of orzo pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 0.5 teaspoon of dried thyme. Add the browned chicken and bring to simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir half of the 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese into the mixture until melted. Transfer to the oven, top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
  5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and add fresh herbs for garnish.

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